Century Old Homes

Century Old Homes – Stone Rubble Foundations & Basement Solutions

Century-old homes with stone rubble foundations are full of character and history, but they often come with basement issues that modern homeowners don’t expect. While the original construction has stood the test of time, controlling groundwater infiltration through stone rubble walls and moisture migration from below the floor can be a constant challenge. Dampness, cold floors, mold, mildew, and that familiar musty basement smell are all common in these older homes. The goal is to respect the heritage of the house while upgrading its performance and comfort for today.

Understanding Stone Rubble Foundations

Stone rubble foundations were typically built with irregular fieldstone and lime-based mortar, often without modern drainage, damp-proofing, or vapour barriers. These foundations were never designed to be perfectly dry living spaces. Over a hundred years later, changes to grading, landscaping, and interior finishes can make existing moisture issues feel much worse.

Common Problems in Century-Old Basements

Homeowners with stone rubble foundations may experience:

Persistent dampness on walls and floors
Water seepage through joints and mortar
Cold, uncomfortable basement floors
Mold and mildew growth on walls, wood, or stored items
Efflorescence (white, powdery mineral deposits on stone or mortar)
Musty, stale odours that drift into the living areas above

If left unaddressed, ongoing moisture can also contribute to deterioration of mortar, rotting of wood framing in contact with damp masonry, and poor indoor air quality.

What Affects the Severity of the Problem?

The extent of moisture and water issues in a century-old home depends on several key factors:

Height of the water table – Homes built close to or below the local water table are more prone to seepage and hydrostatic pressure.
Type of soil – Clay soils tend to hold water, while sandy or granular soils drain more easily.
Site grading and surface drainage – Negative slopes toward the house, short downspouts, or hard surfaces directing water to the foundation will increase infiltration.
Condition of the lime mortar and stones – Deteriorated or missing mortar joints and cracked stones allow more water and air to pass through.
Depth and use of the basement – Deeper basements and ones converted to living space place higher demands on moisture control and comfort.

Because every century home is unique, there is no single “off-the-shelf” solution that works for all stone rubble foundations.

Cochren Foundation’s Approach to Century Homes

Cochren Foundation & Repair works with each homeowner to quickly identify the contributing factors and develop a permanent, practical solution using modern technology and proven products—without compromising the character of the home.

Our typical process includes:

Detailed assessment

We inspect the interior and exterior of the foundation, review grading and drainage, and evaluate the condition of the stone and mortar.

Diagnosis of moisture paths

We determine how water and moisture are entering: through walls, floor, joints, or from below the slab, as well as any air leakage paths.

Tailored repair and upgrade plan

Depending on the home and your goals, solutions may include:

Improved exterior grading and downspout extensions
Interior or exterior drainage systems and sump pit installations
Upgrades to basement floor slabs to control moisture from below
Selective repointing or stabilization of stone rubble walls
Vapour control and insulation strategies that work with stone and lime mortar
Ventilation or dehumidification improvements to control humidity and odours

Our objective is to make your basement drier, more comfortable, and healthier, while preserving the historic character that makes your century home unique.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

If you own a century-old home with a stone rubble foundation and are dealing with dampness, musty odours, or water seepage, we can help. Cochren Foundation & Repair will assess your basement, identify the true sources of moisture, and recommend a tailored, long-term solution that respects the character of your home.

Call us today at 519-647-0256 (Hamilton) or 647-921-7437 (Toronto), or submit your request online to schedule a consultation.